🍗 Fried Chicken Spots in ATL That Go Too Hard
Because sometimes, the only thing that hits is a crispy bite & a soul-satisfying crunch.
Fried chicken in Atlanta is basically a love language, & not all fried chicken is built the same. There’s the crispy, the juicy, the perfectly seasoned, the fire-grilled honorable mentions 👀, & yes… even the late-night Publix runs that still slap.
So for National Fried Chicken Day, I pulled together a list of ATL spots that go way too hard — from cult pop-ups to iconic soul kitchens. Bring your napkins. Let’s dive in.
NOTES: I do love the Big Chicken.. it’s an icon, promise I’m not recommending KFC.
🔥 My Go-To’s (AKA the chokehold crew)
1. How Crispy
Still undefeated in the “that crunch!!” category. Their chicken sandwich combos like Lemon Pepper Wet, Tikka Boi, & Honey Boi with (dark meat options!) are chef’s kiss & the staff always delivers. PRO TIP: Don’t sleep on the nuggies, wings, or wraps! There’s a reason this spot landed on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives. Will was dropping chicken bizkits in a bucket before opening the shop — & yep, sh*t still slaps.
2. Soup Belly (Pop-Up)
You didn’t know you needed fried chicken with a twist of Cantonese salt & pepper comfort… but now you do! PRO TIP: Show up early. Candy is known as THE dumpling dealer for a reason & she sells out.
3. Mother’s Best (Former Pop-Up)
“Damn Good Fried Chicken Like Mom Used to Buy.” & honestly? They mean it. A new-school take on Southern classics with a perfect crust, juicy center, & just the right kick. No notes. Just hand me the bucket with taters, gravy, & a side of red beans & rice. TYSM.
4. Home Grown
A Southern breakfast classic diner, that knows how to fry a bird right. Snag that comfy chicken plate that’s packing serious flavor.
5. Mighty Hans (Pop-Up)
Taiwanese fusion that’s bringing the flavor & the crunch. Fried chicken, but make it bold, bright, & beautifully done.
6. Delilah’s Everyday Soul (Chattahooche Food Works)
The name says it all. They don’t miss, & it tastes like someone’s mama made it with love. Bonus: Probably my favorite cornbread in the city. Don’t skip it.
7. Java Saga (Buford Hwy)
Taiwanese fried chicken with bold spice blends & street-food flair. Underrated & unforgettable.
🍳 Honorable Mentions
Rising Son & Buttermilk Kitchen breakfast
Pollo Supremo – Not technically fried, but their fire-grilled chicken is elite. Respect where it’s due.
💫 Soul Food Royalty & ATL Classics
These spots have history, soul, & legacy behind every bite.
Busy Bee Cafe
West End Soul Kitchen
Q-Time Restaurant
The Beautiful Restaurant
Hop’s Chicken
Paschal’s
🔥 Nashville Heat: Tennessee-Style Spots + 1 Chain
Gus’s Fried Chicken
Hattie B’s
Howlin’ Willy’s
🛒 BONUS BITE:
Yes, I Said Publix
Don’t hate your girl, but Publix fried chicken has entered the chat. It’s dependable, it’s delicious, and if you know… you definitely know.
🙃 Still Craving:
Can we talk about missing the Ba+Me x Barangay fried chicken collab? That crispy magic was unmatched. Somebody bring it back!
🐔 Craving Next:
Magnolia Room in Tucker is top of my hit list & Kimchi Red.
💬 Now You Tell Me: What ATL fried chicken spot never misses for you? Drop it in the comments or tag me @nerdy.retreat so I can add to the list. Oh & if you’re reading this with grease on your fingers… same.
